Subject:
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laser Safety and cats
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Newsgroups:
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lugnet.robotics
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Date:
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Thu, 16 Dec 1999 22:11:06 GMT
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Viewed:
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638 times
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There have been several discussions concerning diode lasers (laser pointers)
and the potential of harm to cats. It is useful to keep in mind several things.
The laser safety standards that classify lasers are worked out for the human
eye. The calculations assume a certain diameter of the pupil/iris in the eye
and this is typically 7-9mm diameter. The permissible laser power is about a
mW. The power density is 25W/square metre.
Cat eyes have a different entrance aperture and have higher sensitivity to
light. Direct exposure to laser light will not "fry" the eyeball etc but will
produce a long lived after image that can confuse the cat and it may hurt
itself as a consequence of the exposure.
The laser standards take into account the blink reflex as a main aversion to
damage.
I think cats love chasing the spot but shining the laser directly in the eye is
dangerous and cruel.
The laser safety standards are well known and available from government
authorities. Most modern hospitals use lasers and the laser safety officers are
responsible for laser safety.
If in doubt - don't do it!!!
Thanks
Tony Pugatschew
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